Once your children have reached the slightly scary 'tweenage' years of 9-12 years old, you can start veering toward the ever more adventurous holidays, for instance, their first expedition. We think that Malaysian Borneo provides adventure-a-plenty for little explorers; this is the land of wild orangutans, pygmy elephants, butterflies the size of dinner plates and ancient rainforest that is even older than Dad (yes, THAT old). We can arrange private nature guides - essential to ensure that any trekking is perfectly suited to little legs - and be sure to build in some beach time to unwind after all that jungle excitement. Plus, the kids' well-used wildlife checklists will provide some serious braggability at next term's show and tell...
Canopy Capers
Nippers with a head for heights will love exploring the canopy walkway in the heart of the Danum Valley. The series of (very sturdy) bridges and platforms are suspended 100ft up, at their highest points, and look our over the 130 million year old jungle canopy.
Longhouse Life
One for the more intrepid youngsters (and parents). The once fearsome Iban tribe have left their 'head hunting' days firmly in the past, and instead will happily welcome you into their traditional longhouse home for an adventurous overnight stay.
King of the Swingers
While spotting a wild orangutan swinging through the rainforest canopy is the goal, a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary is a great jungle introduction. Kids can see orangutans up close, learn about the conservation efforts and even 'adopt' a baby ape, receiving regular updates back home.
Where To Stay: Shangri-La Rasa Ria
With a complimentary kids club, children's pool, onsite nature reserve, tennis courts, watersports, bicycles for hire and horseback rides along the beach all on offer, there is plenty to keep the kids occupied at the Shangri-La Rasa Risa, while parents enjoy some post adventure R&R.
